Vocabulary Expansion of the Igbo Second Language Learners through Acculturation Programme: A Case Study of NINLAN

This study aims to investigate the impacts of acculturation programs on vocabulary expansion among senior secondary school learners of Igbo as a second language, and explores the effectiveness of the National Institute for Nigerian Languages (NINLAN)'s acculturation program in promoting Igbo language and culture acquisition. Anchored on the Acculturation Theory, this study seeks to understand how cultural immersion influences language learning outcomes generally and vocabulary expression in particular . The population for this study comprises students from Unity schools in Nigeria, with a sample of students from Federal Government College Ijanikin, Lagos. The NINLAN in Aba, Abia State, serves as the major site for the acculturation exercise, where students experienced the New Yam Festival, visit the museum, the Eze's Palace, and the popular Ariaria market as well as learning Igbo language in the classroom. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including pre- and post-acculturation vocabulary tests, excursion observation, and interviews with learners and NINLAN staff. The expected outcomes of this study include insights into the effectiveness of acculturation programs for vocabulary expansion and the understanding of the role of cultural immersion in language acquisition. This study will contribute to the development of effective acculturation programs for language learners and inform language teaching methodologies and policies, highlighting the significance of cultural immersion in promoting language acquisition, particularly in the context of Igbo language learning